Although Georgia is known for its heat, freezing temperatures eventually come in the winter months. Being unprepared for a freeze could leave your family without water and dealing with massive home repairs. Burst pipes can cause significant damage very quickly, so our High Priority Plumbing team is standing by 24/7. The best way to avoid plumbing problems during the winter is through proactive winterization. Our plumbers have compiled a list of simple DIY suggestions to help keep your water flowing and avoid plumbing nightmares.
-    Bundle up your Pipes and Faucets—If there is a risk of freezing, your pipes in unheated spaces are at high risk of freezing. Your crawlspace, unfinished basement, and garage would be good places to look for vulnerable pipes. Using foam jackets, heat tape, or pipe wraps can provide insulation and minimize the risk of freezing.
-    Know How to Find your Shut-Off Valve—Shutting off your water quickly is vital to minimize water damage to your home in an emergency. You can typically find your shut-off valve close by to your water meter on the side of your house. The best way to shut it off is using a stop and drain key. Some homeowners use a wrench or pliers out of desperation, but these tools can cause damage to your valve in the process. Prepare for an emergency today by purchasing the key you need online or at a local hardware/home improvement store.
-    Maintain a Cozy Temperature Inside—Set your thermostat to keep your home above 55 to minimize the risk of a frozen pipe, even if you are away for the holidays. Frozen pipes could still happen if you have a power outage or exposed pipes, but limiting your chances is still wise.
-    Leave a Faucet Dripping—When your local forecast predicts freezing weather, locate the faucet in your home which is furthest from where water enters your home. Turn it on to drip cold water. Your entire home’s pipes will be less likely to freeze just because of this one small decision.
-    Make Sure your Home is Sealed—Air leaks in your home will greatly impact your utility bills and the overall temperature of your home. Freezing winter air could seep in around your dryer vents, pipes, or electrical wiring. Also, examine around doors and windows and fill in any gaps or cracks with a suitable caulk. A warm house is less likely to suffer from a frozen pipe. Cheaper utility bills are always nice as well.
If you consider that a tiny crack as small as 3 millimeters can leak up to 250 gallons of water in just a day, taking winterization steps is certainly worthwhile. If you have a plumbing emergency this winter, give High Priority Plumbing a call! We are available 24/7 for your emergency!